Ne-Yo has revealed he didn't hold back with criticism of the 'X Factor' contestants when he joined the show for Judges' Houses

Ne-Yo was brutally honest with the 'X Factor' contestants when he joined the show for Judges' Houses.

The US rapper jetted to Dubai with Nicole Scherzinger where they put the boys category through their paces before Nicole picked her acts for the live shows and Ne-Yo admitted he didn't hold back when it came to criticism.

Speaking at the Staples Center in Los Angeles ahead of the MTV Video Music Awards, he told BANG Showbiz: "I'm honest. I'm not going to be as mean as say Simon Cowell but I can't sugarcoat it when it comes to music, that's one of the few things that I can speak 100 per cent passionately and honestly about.

"I've heard the guys and there's some serious talent in that group. I don't envy Nicole making the decision she had to make."

Although he is serious about his music, Ne-Yo still took the time to enjoy himself on his visit to Dubai.

Tweeting a picture of his suite in the luxurious Jumeirah Zabeel Saray hotel, he tweeted: "Dubai...how've you been? I've missed you. Tho my visit shall be brief, I leave a small piece of my heart here (sic)."

He also enjoyed a night out at Cavalli Club to the delight of the venue's patrons.

The 2012 MTV Video Music Awards will air on Friday (07.09.12) at 9pm on MTV UK, Sky 126 and Virgin 311